Virginia Supporting Diversity in Clinical Trials

RICHMOND, Va. (AP) — Virginia is supporting a national effort to encourage greater diversity of volunteers in clinical trials.

Gov. Terry McAuliffe this week announced the state's support for the "I'm In" campaign launched by the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America and the National Minority Quality Forum.

The campaign seeks to raise awareness about participation in clinical trials among historically underrepresented populations. Supporters argue that increasing diversity in clinical trials can help to ensure more effective medicines and treatments for patients.

Officials say that over the last 15 years, biopharmaceutical research companies in Virginia have conducted more than 3,800 clinical trials of new medicines in collaboration with the state's clinical research centers, university medical schools and hospitals.